Will Muschamp’s departure may hurt Auburn’s chances with Georgia LB

The chances of Auburn securing Chandler Wooten’s verbal commitment may have been impacted by the departure of former defensive coordinator Will Muschamp.

Muschamp’s decision to leave for South Carolina has to some extent affected the three-star linebacker’s standing with the Tigers. Muschamp, of course, served as Wooten’s lead recruiter.

The looming uncertainty surrounding his successor has also yet to be addressed.

“A little bit,” Wooten said of the impact of Muschamp’s absence. “I’ve been in contact with (running backs coach Tim) Horton. With coach Muschamp leaving, I don’t know who the defensive coordinator is going to be.”

Wooten plans to announce by the end of January, he confirmed to SEC Country on Monday. He will unofficially visit Clemson, Auburn, Tennessee and North Carolina — his final schools — between Jan. 15 and Jan. 31, with a decision following shortly thereafter.